The largest event in all of horse racing is quickly approaching. The Triple Crown is here! The Kentucky Derby will take place on May 7, the Preakness Stakes on May 21 and the Belmont Stakes will take place on June 11 right here on Long Island. To help you figure out where to watch the races, we’ve put together this guide.
The 2015 Triple Crown: A Brief Recap
Last year, American Pharoah (yes, “pharaoh” is spelled incorrectly in his name) became the 12th ever winner of the Triple Crown, and the first in the last 37 years, after winning all three races. American Pharoah’s total winnings were $1.24 million at the Kentucky Derby, $900,000 at the Preakness Stakes and $800,000 at the Belmont Stakes.
While his owner, Bob Baffert, originally stated that American Pharoah will race again, that won’t be the case. In November, American Pharoah retired and became a stud, breeding with mares for a whopping $200,000 apiece.
What to Expect at this Year’s Triple Crown
Currently, a horse named Nyquist is the favorite for this year’s races. Nyquist is the son of Uncle Mo, a retired racehorse who had a wonderful career. Nyquist has had a bright start to his career, but only time will tell if he can become a Triple Crown winner. Other highly rated horses include Gun Runner, Mohaymen, Cupid and Lani.
Where to Watch the Races in the Long Island Area
The Bell House, Brooklyn
The Bell House’s Kentucky Derby Party begins at 2 p.m. on May 7. Derby specials will be served, including Benedictine & bacon on brioche, burgoo stew and chocolate julep pie. The Hungry March Band, a Brooklyn-based brass, percussion and performance ensemble, will be supplying music for this year’s party. The race begins at approximately 6:34 p.m., according to the Kentucky Derby’s website, and will be broadcasted on both of the Bell House’s big screens TVs.
Churchill’s, Rockville Centre
Churchill’s will be holding parties for all three race events this year. Off-track betting machines will be available. The main bar and patio bar will be open, weather permitting, with drink specials to be announced. The menu at Churchill’s has plenty of tasty foods, like Maryland crab cake burgers and short rib tacos, so grab your derby hat and head over!
Runyon’s, Seaford
The Kentucky Derby Party at Runyon’s is an extravagant one. The party will have an outdoor tent, a bar, great drink specials, big screen TVs, a raw bar and a ladies’ hat contest. Of course, mint juleps will be served.
J. Paul’s Terrace Café, Oceanside
Kentucky Derby Day at J. Paul’s Terrace Café includes an off-track, touchscreen betting system and live post-race music by singer/songwriter Mark Eriksen. There are drink specials to be announced, and J Paul’s Terrace Café has a menu filled with tons of comfort food for your stressful day of betting.
There are sure to be plenty more viewing parties for the races as they unfold, especially the Belmont Stakes, since it takes place right here on Long Island. If you’re planning on heading to Belmont Park for the third leg of the Triple Crown, make sure you buy your tickets now, because they’re likely to sell out!
